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SUMMER GUIDE
MEXICO | DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | JAMAICA
The big day is coming An elegant chapel, a terrace by the sea, lush green gardens. Wherever your journey takes you, Palladium Hotel Group has the destination you’ve always dreamed of. Happily ever afters begin here.
more information, please contact your travel professional, visit PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM or call 1.888.237.1226
For
WWW.TODAYSBRIDE.CA
GUIDE EDITOR Vivian Vassos submissions@todaysbride.ca
ART DIRECTOR Cami Macca
AD DESIGNER Zoe Gigis
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Shannon Dameron, shannon@todaysbride.ca
SALES MANAGER Jennifer Gigis, jen@todaysbride.ca
6 THE LATEST Trends from New York Bridal Fashion Week
8 THE ELEGANCE OF DIVERSITY
A train for every bride’s style
10 THE BRIDE WORE…A SUIT!
REAL WEDDINGS
16 A BEAUTIFUL DAY ON THE BAY
A joyful family cottage wedding
20 INTO THE WOODS
An outdoor celebration to remember
INSPIRATION
22 LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT
Inspired by first dates and family adds a personal touch
26 BEAT THE HEAT BEAUTY Simplicity is key
PLANNING
30 STAY-COOL STRATEGIES
Expert tips for summer weddings
TRAVEL
34 THE HONEYMOONERS
Travel pros pick their favourite destinations
4 | PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM | The Summer Guide The Summer Guide | contents DÉCOR FOR DAYS GORGEOUS STUNNING REAL WEDDINGS WEDDING Destination INSIDE to Coral Level at Iberostar Selection Bavaro in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic AN EPIC HONEYMOON ENTER TO WIN
YOU SEENMY SILHOUETTE? LOVE SONG LESSONS FROM Arkells HOT SUNNY HONEYMOON IDEAS Coming in Wedding Inspiration THE SUMMER GUIDE
HAVE
STYLE
With the participation of the Government of Canada Published by Travelweek Group 425 Atwell Dr Etobicoke, Ontario M9W 5C4 (416) 365-1500 p. 16 Photography: Castle Avenue Photography (cover and this page); BKH Photography (inset, above)
5 | PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM | The Summer Guide TODAYSBRIDE.CA • 16 FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTESTS, TRENDS, IDEAS, BEHIND-THE-SCENES PHOTOS AND MORE. Clockwise from top left: Alexandra Del Bell Photography • Deer Creek Photography • Jumo Photo • Stephanie Masonr • Alexandra Del Bell Photography • Jules Bower @todaysbridemagcanada @todaysbridemag @todaysbridemag @todaysbridemag @todaysbridemag TB_SS23_Follow Us_HouseAdF.indd 16 2022-12-12 1:33:55 PM
e Latest… What’s trending from the New York Bridal Fashion Week
Though we love all things weddings, we have a special affinity for trending wedding dresses. Who can blame us, right? It’s hard not to love pretty things made with tulle, ruffles, lace and satin, all of which were on full display at New York Bridal Fashion Week earlier this year.
Oversized bows Dress by Watters
The annual event, which took New York City by storm in April, highlighted trending wedding dresses for spring and summer 2024. We’ve rounded up some of our favourite runway trends that will certainly make a splash this year and beyond.
What could be more whimsical than an oversized bow? We love this sophisticated and somewhat unexpected look on a dress for a wedding. Giant bridal gown bows are designed to be worn in the back, front hip, and shoulder. It’s a dramatic look that is both modern and chic and among our favourite looks among trending wedding dresses this year.
Watteau Train Dress by Mira Zwillinger
A trend that we’re excited to see return is the Watteau train. This is a beautiful alternative for brides who want a veil’s whimsy without actually wearing one. A Watteau train attaches to the gown at the highest point, either in the back or on the shoulder. Doing this allows the train to ow down the bride’s back, creating a look similar to a veil. It’s not intrusive to the bride’s face, making it an excellent option for brides who don’t want the u of a veil.
“Like A Virgin” Look Dress by Berta
No, we’re not suggesting you look like Madonna in the '80s with lace gloves and a ru ed tulle skirt. But we are here to tell you that the sheer corset top is back in full force. Often made with lace and embellished with pearls and sparkles, the corset top makes for a bold and sexy statement without being overly risqué. If you’re not that daring, you can opt for a full satin corset that’s both elegant and irty.
6 | PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM | The Summer Guide The Summer Guide | STYLE
THREE WEDDING DRESS DESIGNERS TO WATCH
What to expect in 2024
Galia Lahav LEFT
Known for always walking on the wild side with sheer fabrics and sexy silhouettes, Galia Lahav presented a new collection that encourages modern brides not to conform to traditional norms. You can expect to see beautiful and unique lace motifs, sleek and contemporary silhouettes, ru ed cu s, dramatic skirts, long sleeves and, yes, sheer, sexy details.
Justin Alexander BELOW LEFT
Filled with romance and whimsy, the Justin Alexander Spring 2024 collection will make you fall in love with dainty o -theshoulder necklines, tamed-down versions of the iconic ’80s sleeves (trust us, they’re beautiful), corset bodices, whimsical sleeves and even some sheer peek-a-boo details – but we particularly like the modern simplicity of the collection’s chic necklines with high slits.
Ines Di Santo
One of our favourite wedding dress designers is Ines Di Santo, and if you love a fashionforward dress for a wedding, you’ll love this new collection. We love romantic pale blue gowns and whimsical fairytale beauties; and the exaggerated, full ball gown skirts with pieces of cut tulle, laser-cut lace for a romantic look, ostrich feathers and plunging backs that defy gravity, corset bodices, oversized bridal bows, and so much more.
PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM | The Summer Guide
{ {
e Elegance of Diversity
THINK OF IT AS THE WEDDING DRESS’S GRAND FINALE: WHETHER POOLING ELEGANTLY AT YOUR HEELS OR GOING
TO GREAT LENGTHS AS THE STAR ATTRACTION, FLORAL EMBELLISHED OR ETHEREAL LACE, THERE’S A TRAIN FOR EVERY STYLISH BRIDE.
Wedding Dress Designs
Luxe Collection Bridal
Jewelry
Olaeda
Hair Design & Make-up
Concept Design
Nikki So Chiq
Cosmetic Brand Sponsor
Paba Cosmetics
Venue
Ruby Manor
Florals and Concept Design
LILAC Floral Design
Event Planning & Coordination
MK Events
Event Rentals
Nayos
Chair Rental
Mosaic Event Rentals
8 | PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM | The Summer Guide The Summer Guide |
Photography by Carly Frohlich
STYLE
| The Summer Guide
Olivia & Diana
~ ~ ~ A WHITE JACKET AND JUMPSUIT IS A GLAMOROUS TAKE ON THE TUXEDO
Photography: Sinead Dubeau
Venue: Oceanstone Seaside Resort
10 | PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM | The Summer Guide The Summer Guide | STYLE THE BRIDE WORE...
A SUIT!
A clean-lined jumpsuit paired with a jacket is a modern minimalist’s style dream, a lacy jumpsuit oozes romantic, and a window-pane checked tailored number brings the drama.
Sydney & Holly
A SLIM PANTSUIT CHECKS ALL THE BOXES, FOR DAY OR EVENING AFFAIRS
Photography: Bobbi Barbarich
Planning: Perrier Planning Inc.
Katie & Lucy
A LACE PLAYSUIT GOES BEAUTIFULLY WITH THE GOWN'S DELICATE SLEEVES
11 | PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM | The Summer Guide
Photography: Josie Photo Venue: Cave Spring Vineyard
SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY SPONSORED BY
Discover the perfect suit CLICK HERE for endless possibilities Perfect Moments Perfectly Dressed
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A DayBeautiful on the Bay
LAURA & JASON ... ... ...
With a beloved family cottage as a backdrop, this happy couple were able to bring everyone together in a place near and dear to their hearts.
The cottage wedding. To be able to celebrate a commitment of love in a place that also has special meaning for Laura Turkstra and for her partner, Jason Sirr, is heartwarming and familiar. e Georgian Bay cottage is the summer home of the Turkstra Family, and it’s lled with good vibes. e Turkstra family is known throughout the community for their kindness through their philanthropy and volunteer work, and it spilled over onto a wedding day brimming with positivity and warmth.
On a gorgeous August day, the couple hosted 100 of their closest friends and family. “It was the greatest joy of our lives to celebrate our wedding day at our favourite place, with our favourite people, and with a theme that brought so
much happiness and warmth to all who attended,” says Laura. ... ... ...
“ e cottage is where we got engaged along with countless other memories, so getting married there just felt right!” ... ... ...
As guests arrived, they were ferried by chartered boat dockside, where the wedding ceremony took place; it was part of Laura’s goal “to keep the layers of the event a true reveal.” With a light breeze o the lake, Laura and Jason exchanged their vows and welcomed everyone to enjoy the cottage to its fullest. “Our goal was to create the vibe of the Amal coast on the Georgian Bay, with lemons, olive and lemon trees, and lots of yellow sunshiney goodness in every detail,” she adds.
e classic, wrap-around porch served as the location for cocktail hour; white tents were set up on the front lawn surrounded by the gardens and tall pines, while inside the decor was over owing with sunshiney-bright lemon trees and fresh greenery and accented with warm candlelight. “We wanted our guests to feel like they had been transported to Italy while still appreciating the Bay, and wow did [planner] Gregory deliver!” says Laura.
Laura credits Gregory’s vision and ability to execute in such a magical way. Once dinner was done, and the heat of the setting sun had faded, the cottage doors were opened wide, beckoning guests to make their way inside to a crackling re, or take in the lakeside views while dancing the night away from the back porch.
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17 | PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM | The Summer Guide
Event Design and Planning: Gregory Fast
Tenting and Rentals: Special Event Rentals
Catering: The Other Bird (Chef Matt Kershaw/ Rapscallion)
Photography: Castle Avenue
Videography: Locket Productions
Charter Boat: Chippewa Boat
Invitations: Sienna Mai Invitations
Hair: Lauren Ouellette
Makeup: Glitz Galz Makeup
Rings: Brilliant Earth engagement ring (diamond swirled rose gold band, with a cushion cut Morganite stone and diamond halo), Rose gold Ti any & Co. Her wedding band, and Martin’s Jewelers (Dundas, Ontario) His wedding band.
Dress: Louie Fitted dress by Made With Love, purchased at The Modern Bride
Bride's Shoes: Kate Spade
Suits: Indochino
Bartending: 2 Girls and Your Bar
Cake: Cakes by Design
Cocktail Hour Band: Honeymoon Phase
DJ: Supreme DJs & Entertainment
Transportation: Hammond Transportation
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19 | PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM | The Summer Guide REAL WEDDINGS
Danielle & Sheldon Into the Woods
AFTER A MEET-CUTE ON MOVING DAY IN THEIR BUILDING’S ELEVATOR THAT BLOOMED INTO ROMANCE, EIGHT YEARS OF TOGETHERNESS LATER, IT’S A SUMMER WEDDING DAY.
Photography: BKH Photography
Venue: 100 Acre Wood Video: Brad Cole Film
Tent and Ceremony Florals: Reevewood
Collaborative Bouquets and Boutonnières:
Begonia Moon Hair: There She Glows Hair
Makeup: Jacquie K. Dress: Tara Lauren
Cape: Ines Di Santo Embroidery on Veil: Laura
Jayne Accessories Tuxedo: Garrison Bespoke
Rings: Brilliant Earth
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“While I was waiting in the barn to walk down the aisle, I could see Sheldon and his emotions take over as he began to cry before even seeing me,” says Danielle Hotzwik. “It made me want to kick o my heels and run to smooch him.” For Sheldon, “being able to see my beautiful bride at our rst look will forever be one of the best moments of my life.” Before going down the aisle, Danielle added a long veil embroidered with words that Sheldon had written to her over the years as a surprise for him. Guests were treated to a menu featuring local ingredients and two signature cocktails – a Paloma and a Bourbon Smash.
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LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT
Becky & Kris
is couple’s mutual crush started in Grade 6! A joyful day was in order to celebrate their lifelong love and commitment.
Photography: Scarlet O’Neill Venue, Food and Planning: 100 Acre Wood
O ciant: Weddings by Karin Dress: Prea James from Loversland Veil: Ofrenda
Shoes: Loe er Randall Makeup: The Look Bridal Hair: Thairapy Suit: Suit Supply
Shoes: Belgian Shoes Becky’s ring: Custom through Fireworks Gallery in Halifax Kris’ Ring: Birks Florist: Bloem Please
22 | PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM | The Summer Guide The Summer Guide | INSPIRATION
23 | PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM | The Summer Guide
When you marry your best friend, it’s a gi , and having a shared best friend marry you ups the ceremony a notch – as does a location that’s been the backdrop for your love story. “We both grew up going to Picton as kids so Prince Edward County holds a special place in our hearts, memories of long summer days at the beach frolicking in the sand dunes,” says Becky Mak of the joyful spirit and youthful energy she and Kris Hicks took as inspiration for their wedding. Take, for example, the couple riding a tandem bicycle to their reception as a nod to a date they had on Centre Island in Toronto. “ e perfect wedding day for us meant sharing an incredible family-style, outdoor meal in an intimate setting with family and friends. Mary and the 100 Acre Wood team helped us develop a menu that had subtle nods to our own personal history with some of our favourite dishes,” she adds. Topped o by a DIY Pavlova bar for dessert, a sweet time was had by all.
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B EAT t he HE AT BE A U TY
ese four beauty looks are universal.
1. e Strong Brow
When you’ve got great skin, sometimes all you really need are well-groomed brows. Accentuate them with a brow liner that matches your brow’s natural colour (or a shade darker if you’re very fair) for a faceframing e ect, and also gives eyes an instant lift.
2. e Lush Lashes
A coat or two of black mascara goes a long way, but if you really want to pump up the volume, use a growth serum such as Rapid Lash starting about eight weeks before the big day to give lashes a boost. And don’t forget to line the eyes in a matching dark pencil for added drama.
3. e Low ponytail
The sleek solution to warmer weather weddings, especially if your hair is prone to frizz or go at in the humidity. Even better if you have a show-stopping pair of earrings to show o . Start with a centre part, and use some loose strands to cinch the ponytail at the nape. Want a bit extra? Try Great Lengths pre-bonded hair extensions for added length and volume.
4. e Red Lip
Go bold, especially if you are keeping your hair more natural. Try lining the lips with a neutral pencil rst, to help keep the more saturated red in place. Cooler skin tones will suit a bluered hue, while warmer tones can go toward the orange-reds. This true red, seen here, looks great on all skin tones.
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Photography: Carly Frohlich Hair and Makeup Concept Design: Nikki So Chiq Makeup: Outfoxed Artistry Cosmetic
INSPIRATION
Brand Sponsor: Paba Cosmetics Venue: Ruby Manor Florals and Concept Design: LILAC Floral Design Event Planning & Coordination: MK Events Wedding Dress Designs: Luxe Collection Bridal Jewelry: Olaeda
1 2 3 4
When the temperature’s rising, simplicity is key when it comes to makeup. Choose one thing to highlight, and make it your focus. e best part?
Weddings at the Art Gallery of Ontario AGO.ca/host-your-event | 416 979 6634 | events@ago.ca
@AGO_events #AGOevents
Photo: Purple Tree Photography Inc.
TRS Hotels o er an exclusive haven for adults, making it the ideal option for couples seeking an idyllic setting for honeymoons, weddings, vow renewals, or simply a tranquil retreat lled with love and intimacy.
TRS Coral Hotel is located on the stunning beaches of Costa Mujeres, Mexico, o ers an elevated and unique all-inclusive, adults-only experience with exclusive butler service included with every suite and personalized attention for couples. e hotel is only 30 minutes away from the lively city of Cancun, but with access to the white sandy beaches of Costa Mujeres, the Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre and the Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness, guests can enjoy the luxury escape of their dreams without leaving the property.
TRS Yucatan Hotel is located on Mexico’s renowned Riviera Maya, 30 minutes away from Playa del Carmen. is is the perfect choice for couples who want to enjoy privacy and personalized service while also o ering unlimited access to a wide array of top quality services. Couples can revel in TRS Yucatan Hotel’s 3-tiered pool or enjoy one of
the unique romantic experiences o ered such as their Dinner and Mayan Love Ritual at Ixmucané Grand Cenote where couples can strengthen the bond between them and enjoy an intimate dinner surrounded by a starry sky. For those seeking a more relaxing experience, e Romantic Dinner at Sunset in Front of e Sea allows you to unwind in the Royal Domo before or a er dinner. Couples can savor a delicious menu and a bottle of wine served by their own waiter, all while guests can enjoy the company of their signi cant other.
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INSPIRATION
TRS Turquesa Hotel is located on Punta Cana’s Bávaro Beach and is the perfect place to enjoy a beachfront getaway for couples. Situated on a milelong stretch of white sand and turquoise waves, TRS Turquesa Hotel is just the place for couples looking for a luxe yet intimate experience. TRS Turquesa Hotel’s Romance swim-up suites were designed exclusively for couples in mind, with a jacuzzi, premium mini bar, 24-hour in-suite service with an à la carte menu, pillow menu, and much more. Couples looking for peace and privacy can experience VIP quality service on the beach’s many exclusive areas. Guests who prefer the pool can enjoy the TRS Turquesa Hotel pool, featuring stunning seaside views and Balinese hammocks with towel service. e experience is heightened by the delicious cocktails served by expert bartenders at the pool’s swim-up bar.
TRS Cap Cana Waterfront & Marina Hotel is located in the most exclusive part of Punta Cana, on the east coast of the Dominican Republic, away from the crowded resorts, and surrounded by a lush tropical forest next to a long pristine beach. e intimate and undisturbed surrounding of the TRS Cap Cana Waterfront & Marina Hotel makes it ideal for couples that are seeking a relaxing retreat. e wellness o erings at Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness allow couples to disconnect and reconnect with each other through a variety of massage therapy options, facials, hydrotherapy circuit, and more. Couples looking for adventure can indulge in water sports and other outdoor activities practiced all year round.
Available at all TRS Hotels, Chic Cabaret & Restaurant will provide pure excitement and a irtatious, sensual performance that will become an authentic experience, accompanied by exquisite cuisine in an evocative atmosphere for couples that enjoy a dinner and a show.
For couples recently engaged or looking to renew their vows can create a dream destination wedding or vow renewal with Weddings by Palladium. Palladium Hotel Group properties in Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica have unique
settings for ceremonies, expansive ocean views and the exibility to adapt details to the taste and needs of each couple. From surprise marriage proposals, unforgettable beach celebrations and glamorous receptions to honeymoon planning, Weddings by Palladium makes engaged couples’ dreams come true. Each couple has their own wedding coordinator, o ering personalized service to take the stress out of planning.
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EMILY & ADAM
Stay Cool Strategies
If you’re thinking about a summer wedding, take these expert tips from Tracey Manailescu and Danielle Andrews, the founders of the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada. Get inspired to take it outdoors with Emily and Adam, from their rural wedding
Photography: Gemini Photography Ontario
Venue: Gracewood Estates at Kurtzwood Orchards
Dress: Pronovias, Kleinfeld Canada
Hair & Makeup: Hutch Cosmetics
Tuxedo: Harry Rosen
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Jealous Bridesmaids
Florist: Ooh La La Floral Designs
Day-of styling and decor: Tufts & Toile
Decor rentals: Simply Beautiful
30 | PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM | The Summer Guide The Summer Guide | PLANNING
Today’s Bride: How soon should I start planning a summer wedding?
Tracey Manailescu: Summer weddings in Canada are always the biggest demand. De nitely start securing your must-have wedding professionals as soon as you can. e ceremony and venue should be booked rst as there is only one of each. If you have a large guestlist or you must have a certain venue, then you should consider booking at least a year and a half out. en move on down your must-have wedding professionals list.
TB: How soon should I be looking for a professional planner to help me with my dream day? Is it common to "interview" or meet with more than one planner?
Danielle Andrews: It is always great to contact a wedding planner at least a year before your wedding day. Weddings require a lot of planning, most professionals can only work with one wedding per day, and certain vendors book up quickly. It is very important to meet and interview potential planners so that you can build a great rapport. You will be working closely with this person and they will be helping you invest a lot of money into your dream day, so it is important that you are on the same page and work well together.
TB: Are destination wedding planners also capable of planning a local "destination" wedding? Say a cottage or a cabin or even an urban backyard? Or do you suggest nding someone who is at the local level.
Danielle: Destination wedding planners can help with planning a local destination wedding, as they can apply the same skills, such as sourcing and working with vendors they are not familiar with, as well as setting up events in non-typical wedding venues. If your destination wedding planner is certi ed through WPIC, they would have needed to take the Core Wedding Planning Course as a prerequisite to the Destination Certi cation.
TB: e Venue: Indoor or outdoor? And because it’s summer, and everything is in bloom, is the decor sometimes an afterthought? How do you add a personal touch during summer?
Tracey: ere is something so beautiful about an outdoor wedding. I de nitely say outdoors! However, since we are in Canada you always need to have Plan B in place for inclement weather and bugs. Make sure there is a tent, generator, portable washrooms, prep tent for catering, lighting, a dance oor and air conditioning or heat depending on the temperature. You de nitely want to have added decor to beautify the space even more. Chandeliers, candles, orals, and linens will add to the look and feel of an outdoor wedding.
31 | PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM | The Summer Guide
ZOOM IN!
TB: What’s your secret, go-to tip for a summer or warm-weather wedding?
Danielle: My number one hot weather tip for those wearing dresses is to use a solid deodorant between their thighs to prevent cha ng and rubbing. Evian (or any compressed water) mist is the best way for everyone to stay cool on the wedding day. A quick spray on the face or the back of the neck is very refreshing and helps perk up makeup too! Having avoured water stations set up at the ceremony is very thoughtful for the guests, as they may be out in the full sun for up to an hour. Remember to have straws so the women don't wreck their lipstick!
Tracey: Ensure that there are shaded areas for your guests. Put the lounge furniture under trees, have large umbrellas set up, and provide plenty of passed drinks for you and your guests. Give each guest a fan on their chairs for the ceremony.
TB: Summer heat can sometimes make the dinner menu a tougher choice. Are there certain foods you'd recommend to the caterers for a summer wedding?
Danielle: Years ago I was the o cial spokesperson for Watermelon at Weddings and I still rmly believe it is an ideal food for summer weddings! I love salads made with feta cheese, watermelon and mint; it is the perfect cool-down dish. Appetizers on skewers are great for cocktail parties, as messy foods seem to make people feel more uncomfortable in the warm weather. I also try to stay away from cold-weather food like hot soups or heavy meals. Light fare with fresh salads, fruits and vegetables are the perfect summer foods.
TB: What's the one thing everyone forgets – except the wedding planner?
Tracey: Just one? Outdoor weddings usually require your wedding party and guests to walk in the grass or gravel. Wear comfortable shoes or change into them after the ceremony and photos and encourage your guests to do the same – and to wear shoes that won't get stuck in the ground and ruined (trust me, your guests will thank you). Get some posed family photos –especially with your parents. Candid and photojournalistic are wonderful, and necessary, but 20 years from now, you will miss not having some professional photos with those nearest and dearest to you to look back on.
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PLANNING
e Bottom Line?
If we had to choose just one thing, please remember that this is your wedding. Do what makes you and your partner happy. Trying to please everyone will only make you and your partner miserable.
inking about a destination wedding further a eld?
All on-site Wedding Coordinators at Jewel Resorts, Couples Resorts, Sandals Resorts in Jamaica, Palace Resorts in Mexico, the Hard Rock All Inclusive Collection, Atlantis Resorts in e Bahamas, as well as most members e Bahamas Bridal Association, the Barbados Hotel & Tourism Association, Antigua & Barbuda Hotel & Tourist Association are certi ed by the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada!
For more, including how to nd a WPIC certi ed wedding planner, go to wpic.ca
“We had a jaw dropping ceremony, cocktail and reception at Gracewood Estates at Kurtz Orchards,” Emily Boland-Slinn says, about her rural wedding to Adam Slinn.
“Everything was impeccably chosen to match with our romantic, rustic style featuring greens, whites and rusty purples throughout.” Even the invitations, which Emily designed, were impeccable with letter pressing and gold foil features. “ e look and feel was cohesive throughout the venue and not a single detail was missed. I have a marketing and graphic design background, so I was quite meticulous making sure everything looked exactly how I had envisioned. As I always say, some little girls dream about their wedding dress, I dreamed about my invitations and decor to match.”
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THE HONEYMOONERS
St. Lucia and Antigua are two of my all-time favourite honeymoon destinations,” says Cindy Almond, the owner of Romance and Foodie Travel consultants. “Anse Chastanet and Jade Mountain are o en my go-to picks for St. Lucia, but there are other amazing properties in the Soufriere area, like Rabot Hotel from Hotel Chocolat and Sugar Beach by Viceroy.”
Shalene Dudley, the lead travel concierge at Latitude Concierge Travels, is nding that “when clients are asking for the Caribbean, they’re now also asking for longer than seven nights,” she says, a re ection of the longer-stay trend that’s happening in travel generally.
Couples who are requesting longer stays are also looking at far- ung destinations. “We are getting a lot of requests for Bali and ailand,” adds Dudley, of her favourites, which also include Madeira and Mallorca, “as well as Spain and the French Riviera.”
“In Antigua, I love Galley Bay, Carlisle Bay and Coco’s Hotel as some of my favourites,” says Almond. Jamaica is also a favourite, she adds, when I mention the revamped Sandals at Dunns River.
“Jamaica’s a good one for sure; there are some neat options with amazing private pool villas like Jamaica Inn for a couple looking for that extra level of peace and luxury and romance.” In Mexico, Almond is seeing requests for the Riviera Maya, and Isla Mujeres. “ ere is a new Impression by Secrets Isla Mujeres that just opened that is a really cool boutique option, and the company is opening a new resort later this year called Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres in the Costa Mujeres area – where there is also a Palladium and TRS Coral. TRS is the adult side of the Palladium and a nice wallet-friendly option,” she adds.
Palladium, which specializes in destination weddings, has also revamped its Riviera Maya resort complex, and is planning its reopening for later this year, another Palladium option is on Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, as well as Dominican Republic and Jamaica. Speaking of Jamaica, RIU Hotels and Resorts is opening a new all-inclusive resort in Jamaica, the Hotel RIU Palace Aquarelle, in Falmouth, near the north end of the island. It joins new launches this year and next in Tanzania, Mauritius, New York City and Toronto, among others.
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TRAVEL
to take o for a romantic getaway a er the big day?
asked
couple of romance travel experts for what’s on their radar. ANTIGUA SPAIN THAILAND
Looking
We
a
“I have found more and more people are leaving the honeymoon (or trip planning in general) to the last minute, looking for departures within 1-2 months, and this really limits the wow factor we can provide at value pricing.” Last minute, she notes, is expensive, and availability is limited, so Almond suggests a bride consider approaching a good travel agent early in the process. “Ten to 11 months prior to departure, when ights become available to book, so that we can get the best room types and best pricing,” she advises. “I realize that the wedding is the number one focus for many, and that the honeymoon can be an a erthought, but that’s why we’re here, to alleviate the time and stress of planning so that you can have a relaxing and romantic time with your partner without all the work.”
Both Cindy Almond and Shalene A. Dudley are members of e 1000 Club, a rst-of-its-kind global community created to recognize the individual travel advisor for their achievements in sales.
• https://the1000.club
You can reach Cindy at
• (613) 240-5976
• cindy@romanceandfoodietravel.ca
• romanceandfoodietravel.ca
You can reach Shalene at
• (416) 799-4364
• toll-free at (833) 933-2929
• shalene@latitudeconciergetravels.com
• latitudeconciergetravels.com
A collection of lifetime memories
We understand the excitement, the joy and the great efort you are making to be in this breathtaking paradise for one of the most special moments in life. Take a look at our fve Wedding Collections and fnd the one that suits your dream wedding; we have everything you need for a day that you and your guests will treasure forever.
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Book through www.weddingsbyriu.com
For more details, terms and conditions contact us at weddings@riu.com
35 | PALLADIUMWEDDINGS.COM | The Summer Guide
EXTRA EXPERT ADVICE
“My Number 1 tip is: plan early,” says Almond.
LoveBEGINS HERE
PLAN THE WEDDING OF YOUR DREAMS
PLAN THE WEDDING OF YOUR DREAMS
Whether it’s sleek sophistication, quiet elegance or an unexpected touch of adventure, Niagara Parks Weddings has the perfect answer. Exchange your vows in a garden so magnificent it will take your breath away, then celebrate your love at a reception venue like no place on Earth.
Whether it’s sleek sophistication, quiet elegance or an unexpected touch of adventure, Niagara Parks Weddings has the perfect answer. Exchange your vows in a garden so magnificent it will take your breath away, then celebrate your love at a reception venue like no place on Earth.
Trust our experienced event specialist to help you create memories for a lifetime at one of our spectacular venues. From showers and engagement parties to weddings and anniversary events, look to us to help bring your dream to life.
Trust our experienced event specialist to help you create memories for a lifetime at one of our spectacular venues. From showers and engagement parties to weddings and anniversary events, look to us to help bring your dream to life.
Along our 56 kilometres, Niagara Parks o ers nine picturesque ceremony locations and four stunning reception venues.
Along our 56 kilometres, Niagara Parks o ers nine picturesque ceremony locations and four stunning reception venues.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT NIAGARAPARKSWEDDINGS.COM 905.356.2241 x 2270 • WEDDINGS@NIAGARAPARKS.COM
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT NIAGARAPARKSWEDDINGS.COM 905.356.2241 x 2270 • WEDDINGS@NIAGARAPARKS.COM